Fire at recycling centre in Ford

The fire crews were called to the facility just before 1.40pm on the airfield industrial estate after flames broke out among 30sq m of plastics. They used 20 sets of breathing apparatus to get close to the fire.

It caused smoke damage to the two storey building.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

The materials recycling facility was opened last July and boasts some of the most modern recycling equipment in the country. It is operated by the county council through its contractor, Viridor.

The partners have acted quickly to ensure recycling will continue.

Derek Whittington, the county councillor for strategic planning, said: "There will obviously have to be a full investigation, and an assessment of the damage to the machinery.

"But I am grateful to our wastes managment team and Viridor for arranging an alternative facility (at Crayford) at such short notice so that recycling in West Sussex is not disrupted."

No school parties were visiting the centre at the time of the fire.